From Mythic to Linear: Time in Children's Literature

(Paperback)

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Description

In this radically new approach to text typology, Maria Nikolajeva examines the depiction of time in literature for children.

Reviews

This is a work for those who are interested in a new and interesting slant on the nature of children's fiction. Despite its theoretical basis the book is straightforward to read, and the author's breadth and depth of knowledge of her subject, together with her often perceptive insights into it, make it rewarding reading. * Orana *
...a well researched and thorough book...From Mythic to Linear crosses many boundaries in order to broaden our view of both time and children's fiction. Nikolajeva gives scholars from a variety of different areas of literary study food - and time - for thought. * The Journal of the Fantastic in the Arts *
The organizing principle of time allows Nikolajeva to work with a broad range of concerns. She often considers specific works with depth - highlighting how the plot fits her scheme, while at times considering linguistic markers to make her point. Throughout she makes the case that the theoretical distinction between "realistic" and "nonrealistic" children's books is not helpful. She also grapples with the complex relationship between myth, folktale, and children's literature, relying on a Jungian framework (though Nikolajeva takes pains to make connections between her framework and other literary and psychological theories). The book's index of titles is a valuable resource. * Journal of Folklore Research *
...Nikolajeva clearly explains the theoretical bases of her analyses and provides an admirably accessible, intelligent, and stimulating study of children's fiction. * CHOICE *

Author Bio

Maria Nikolajeva is Professor of Comparative Literature at Stockholm University in Stockholm, Sweden. She was the president of the International Research Society for Children's Literature 1993-97. She has also been member of the North American Children's Literature Association since 1985 and has served on its International Committee.